49ers report card: Pass defense falters in Miami

Miami Dolphins wide receiver DeVante Parker (11) catches a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers, Sunday, Nov. 27, 2016, in Miami Gardens, Fla.
Lynne Sladky
AP

Offense: The 49ers are barely competitive when they win the turnover differential. On the road against the Dolphins, they fought to the end but ultimately were done in by tight end Garrett Celek’s fumble in Miami territory and by a throw that went through Torrey Smith’s hands into those of a Dolphins defender.Grade: C+

Defense: The 49ers’ run defense weathered the South Florida humidity, allowing only 45 yards to running back Jay Ajayi. The pass defense, however, gave up plays of 43 and 46 yards as Ryan Tannehill, not exactly known as a prolific passer, finished with 285 yards, three touchdowns and a 130.6 passer rating. Grade: C-

Special teams: Bradley Pinion had a booming, 59-yard punt in the opening quarter that gunner Aaron Burbridge finished with a strong tackle. But that was the only highlight. The low point: A 78-yard kickoff return by the Dolphins in the third quarter just as the 49ers were crawling back into the game. Grade: C

Overall: One inescapable contrast: The Dolphins got several big plays from their wide receivers, most of whom they drafted, while the 49ers’ leading wideout was Rod Streater, whom the 49ers added on Sept. 3. A major upgrade at the position is needed in the offseason. Grade: C-

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